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Safety instructions
effects. The check shall also take into account the effects of aging
or continual vibration from sources such as compressors or fans.
5. Detection of flammable refrigerants
Under no circumstances shall potential sources of ignition be used
in the searching for or detection of refrigerant leaks. A halide torch
(or any other detector using a naked flame) shall not be used.
6. Leak detection methods
The following leak detection methods are deemed acceptable for
systems containing flammable refrigerants.
Electronic leak detectors shall be used to detect flammable
refrigerants, but the sensitivity may not be adequate, or may
need re-calibration. (Detection equipment shall be calibrated in a
refrigerant-free area.) Ensure that the detector is not a potential
source of ignition and is suitable for the refrigerant used. Leak
detection equipment shall be set at a percentage of the LFL of the
refrigerant and shall be calibrated to the refrigerant employed and
the appropriate percentage of gas (25 % maximum) is confirmed.
Leak detection fluids are suitable for use with most refrigerants
but the use of detergents containing chlorine shall be avoided as
the chlorine may react with the refrigerant and corrode the copper
pipe-work.
If a leak is suspected, all naked flames shall be removed/
extinguished. If a leakage of refrigerant is found which requires
brazing, all of the refrigerant shall be recovered from the system, or
isolated (by means of shut off valves) in a part of the system remote
14 / 76 EN
Local air conditioner / User Manuel